Hi all:

I'm a new member here on the forums and also to the world of RC flying. Are radio controls interchangable between aircraft? Could a controller that controls an F-16 also control a P-41, or even a glider or other training aircraft? How does one "set" the controller to work with the aircraft? By setting the channel?

Thanks.

-- Steve

You can use one transmitter to control many airplanes. the airplanes all have to have a receiver on the same channel as the transmitter. For example, if your transmitter is on channel 32, then all your airplanes must also be on channel 32. also all the receivers must be compatible with the transmitter "shift". JR transmitters use a different shift as compared to Futaba transmitters. (shift is either negative or positive). some receivers will work with either shift. When you buy a receiver, ask the seller if it is compatible wit your exact transmitter make and model.

Thanks DMcQuinn. Is it possible to change the receiver in RTF aircraft, or is everything built-in and secured so they can't be removed? I presume that, assuming an appropriate size, a single receiver can work in multiple aircraft?

Most people put a receiver in each plane. You could move one receiver from plane to plane but it would be a hassle.

Receivers can generally be yanked out of one plane and put into another. If they can't be removed, then someone obviously did an injustice. As per the previous post, just make sure the brand names are compatible.

The same goes for the rest of the flight pack (Batteries, Switch, Servos) For those on a limited budget, it's very common to switch equipment from one plane to another.

Of course, there are limitations to this. The servos that came with a 4-channel Trainer will not be powerful enough to fly a BIG aerobatic plane.

But yes, for the most part, it's perfectly ok to swap your radio around

Also the radios for a typical trainer may not be "complex" enough to control some of the more advanced planes. Not enough channels (functions) available or you may simply need additional servos. You can move the "airborn" portion from plane to plane for a while but it will get old as it does take some time and if you also move the servos they may require realignment each time too. With a slightly more advanced transmitter that can store data for more than one plane (memory) and additional "flight pack(s)" you will find life a lot easier. This is something to at least look forward to.